A. O. Smith University Announces In-Person and Virtual Classes for September and October

As the leaves begin to change colors and the temperature starts to cool, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about home maintenance and repairs. And when it comes to plumbing issues, A. O. Smith University is here to help. The company has recently announced in-person and virtual classes for September and October, providing an… Continue reading A. O. Smith University Announces In-Person and Virtual Classes for September and October

Grant UK releases new episodes of the Net Zero Heating Show podcast

Grant UK, a leading manufacturer of innovative heating technologies, has announced the release of new episodes for its popular Net Zero Heating Show podcast. This podcast is dedicated to educating and informing homeowners and industry professionals about the latest trends and advancements in energy-efficient heating systems. With its focus on net-zero carbon emissions, the podcast… Continue reading Grant UK releases new episodes of the Net Zero Heating Show podcast

Revive Your Home With a Makeover: Tips for Enhancing Your Property

If you’re feeling bored with your home’s current look or the interior design is outdated, it’s time to consider a makeover. Giving your home a facelift doesn’t have to be a complicated task if you have a plan to follow. The key is to choose improvements that will enhance your property’s value and make it a more comfortable, functional space that reflects your personal style. In this article, Kevin Szabo Jr. Plumbing & Sewer Services shares some tips on how to revive your home with a makeover.Remodel Your KitchenThe kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home, and it’s also the room that potential buyers will scrutinize the most. A kitchen remodel can be a significant investment, but it’s one that can pay off in the long run. Consider updating your cabinets, countertops, and appliances with modern, efficient options. If your budget is limited, start small by replacing your cabinet hardware, painting your cabinets, or adding a statement backsplash.Update Your Accessories and DécorOne of the easiest ways to give your home a makeover is by updating your accessories and décor. Consider changing your throw pillows, blankets, and wall art to reflect the season or your changing taste. Add some house plants to bring life and warmth into the space. You can also add a new area rug, change out your lampshades, or add new curtains to update the overall look of your room.Introduce Some Throw RugsThrow rugs can add layers of texture and color to your floors, making your space more cozy and inviting. You can swap out throw rugs seasonally or choose something that will work year-round. Consider choosing bright throw rugs for the summer and muted or darker hues for the fall and winter months.Upgrade Your LightingLighting can make or break a room’s ambiance. If you want to give your home a makeover, consider upgrading your lighting fixtures. Swap outdated fixtures with modern, energy-efficient options that make your space brighter and more inviting. Add dimmer switches to your dining room or living room to create a more intimate setting.Create Themed RoomsGiving each room a theme can help add cohesion to your home’s overall aesthetic. You can create a beachy vibe in your living room by adding seashell décor and nautical accents. Or add greenery, floral prints, and natural wood accents to create a rustic, farmhouse-style dining room. Choose a color palette and stick to it throughout your home.Digitize Documents to DeclutterOne of the most effective ways to declutter your space is by digitizing your documents. Instead of keeping stacks of papers and receipts, scan them to your computer and store them in the cloud. This will not only help you stay organized, but it will also help free up space in your home so you can fully enjoy your new makeover. For continuity and easy access, save your documents as PDFs. If you need to add pages and combine files, this is the best option.Splurge on Some New CurtainsCurtains can add depth and dimension to your windows while also providing privacy and insulation. If your current curtains are outdated, change them out for something more modern and sleek. Consider adding textured fabric or playful prints to your windows to add a pop of visual interest. Reviving your home with a makeover can be an exciting project to tackle. Start by choosing improvements that will enhance your home’s value and reflect your personal style. Consider updating your kitchen or adding throw rugs to make it more comfortable and welcoming. Digitize your documents to free up space, and add new curtains to refresh the look of your home. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a brand-new living space that you’ll be proud to call home.Guest Contributor: Bob Shannon

What Is The Importance Of Finding A Good Contractor?

Are you thinking of making renovations to your home or starting a construction project? If so, then finding the right contractor is absolutely essential. With the help of a skilled professional, you can ensure that the job will get done with quality results and according to your specifications. This blog post will explain the advantages you get if you decide to go down this road!Quality Of WorkWhen it comes to home improvement projects or any other work, the right people can do them a lot better. Homeowners from all around Badger State are reaching out to Wisconsin general contractors to at least oversee if everything’s going fine and suggest improvements along the way. This is one of the key benefits of hiring such professionals.

They have the knowledge, skills, and expertise to complete projects to the highest standards. From small repairs to major renovations, contractors have the experience to get the job done right. They also have access to the best materials and tools to ensure that your project is durable, safe, and up to code. By hiring a contractor, you can rest assured that your project will be completed to your satisfaction, and you won’t have to worry about any costly mistakes or rework down the line.SafetyWhen it comes to home repairs or renovations, your well-being should always be a top priority. By hiring a contractor, you can benefit from their expertise and experience in ensuring the work is not just done well, but done safely. A contractor will follow all safety regulations and guidelines to make sure the job site is secure and that the people working there are protected. They also have the necessary safety equipment, tools, and training to complete the job without any accidents or injuries. With a contractor on your side, you can rest easy knowing your project will be completed safely and efficiently.Equipment Every major project requires a set of expensive tools that require knowledge to operate. No matter what you’re embarking on, your contractor will most likely have everything they need to get it done efficiently and effectively. Here are some examples:heavy machinerysafety gearpower toolssurveying equipmentspecialized toolsmaterials handling equipmentelectrical testing toolsThis means that you won’t need to spend time and money renting or purchasing equipment that you might only use once, and you can rest assured that the tools being used are of the highest quality. Plus, you won’t need to worry about storing or maintaining the equipment once the project is complete. Overall, hiring a contractor with top-notch equipment can save you time, money, and stress.SpeedWhen it comes to completing home improvement projects or repairs, time is of the essence. That’s why hiring a contractor can be a wise decision. With years of experience, they can quickly assess the project at hand and efficiently complete the work in a timely manner. Faster completion times not only mean that you can enjoy your updated space sooner, but it can also minimize disruptions to your daily routine. Additionally, as it was mentioned, contractors often have access to specialized tools and equipment that can aid in completing the task even faster. By hiring a contractor, you can have peace of mind knowing that your project will be completed promptly and effectively.Expert Advice A good contractor will have years of experience in the industry and will be up to date on the latest trends and techniques. This knowledge can prove essential when it comes to making important decisions about your project, such as what materials to use, what design features to incorporate, and how to ensure the success of your project. By hiring a contractor, you’ll gain access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise that you wouldn’t have otherwise. You’ll be able to rest easy knowing that your project is in good hands and that you’re getting the best advice possible. So whether you’re looking to complete a home renovation, remodel a commercial property, or build a new structure from scratch, a contractor can help you achieve your goals with confidence and ease.Saving Money One of the most attractive benefits of having a good contractor team on your payroll is saving money in the long run. While it may seem counterintuitive to spend more money upfront by hiring a professional, it can actually save you money in the long run. This is because contractors have the experience and knowledge to do the job efficiently and effectively, which means fewer mistakes and fewer costly repairs down the line. Additionally, contractors often have access to better deals on materials and equipment, which can also save you money. So, if you’re looking to save money on your home improvement projects, consider hiring a contractor to do the job right the first time.Legal Compliance By bringing in a contractor who is experienced and knowledgeable in the regulations and laws that affect your business, you’ll have someone on your team who can help reduce the risks associated with non-compliance, such as lawsuits or fines. From safety protocols to employee protection laws, a contractor who is up-to-date on legal requirements can provide the necessary guidance and support to ensure your company is operating within the law. Plus, by outsourcing legal compliance to a trusted professional, you can focus on other areas of your business and leave the legal details to the experts.Liability ProtectionAs a homeowner or business owner, it is essential to protect yourself from any unforeseen accidents or mishaps during the project. Contractors have insurance coverage, which means that in case of any damage or legal claims, their insurance will handle it. This means that you don’t have to worry about any unexpected costs that could put your finances in jeopardy. In addition, these are trained professionals who know how to handle projects with safety in mind, thus minimizing the chances of accidents occurring. By hiring a contractor, you can have peace of mind knowing that you, your property, and your finances are protected.

Good contractors will always produce quality work, often execute tasks with the right safety protocols and equipment, complete projects quickly, provide expert advice to help you make good decisions, save money in the long run due to improved efficiency, comply with legal standards, and provide additional liability protection that can protect both you and your property. With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why finding a trustworthy contractor is so important. Investigate multiple contractors before making your final decision: compare their track records, ask for references from past clients, and read customer reviews. Doing this will ensure you get the best contractor for the job!

8 Bathroom Repairs That Should Be Left to the Experts

Do you have a broken toilet, dripping sink, or other common household plumbing problem? DIY bathroom repairs can seem like an easy fix for the amateur handyman, but when it comes to certain tasks, calling in a professional plumber is your best bet. These repairs should only ever be completed by the experts! Read on to find out which ones they are.Shower And Tub This is certainly one area where it’s especially true that expert help is needed. Many homeowners call professionals to help them with shower sealing projects so they can be completely sure everything runs smoothly afterward. This is true for a lot of other jobs regarding these elements.

While it may seem like a simple task to swap out your old tub for a new one, there are many factors to consider, such as plumbing connections and proper sealing to prevent water damage. Additionally, if the installation is not done correctly, it could lead to more expensive repairs down the line. By relying on the expertise of professionals, you can rest easy knowing that your new shower or tub has been installed correctly and will provide you with many years of use.Plumbing When it comes to bathroom repairs, plumbing is one task you definitely shouldn’t try to DIY. Sure, it might seem like a simple job – just replace a leaky faucet or fix a clogged toilet, right? But trust your handymen when they say that one wrong move could lead to a major disaster. That’s why it’s always best to leave plumbing work to the experts. Not only do professional plumbers have the skills and experience to get the job done right, but they also have the tools and equipment to tackle even the trickiest of plumbing issues. Plus, hiring one can save you time, money, and stress in the long run, since they’ll ensure that the repair is done correctly and won’t cause any further damage. So next time you’re facing a plumbing problem in your bathroom, don’t hesitate to call in the pros. Your pipes (and your wallet) will thank you!Electrical When a bathroom repair is needed, it’s natural to want to save money by taking on the work yourself. However, when it comes to electrical issues, it’s important to know that not all repairs are safe for an amateur electrician. In fact, this kind of work in a bathroom can be especially dangerous due to the environment’s high levels of moisture. As a result, it’s highly advised to leave the electrical work to the experts. Professionals are equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to handle the job safely, ensuring that your bathroom is up to code and fully functional. Plus, by hiring an expert, you can have peace of mind knowing that your bathroom and your family are protected.Tile And Grout Tile and grout repair also falls into the category of projects that should be left to the professionals. It involves the following complex steps:inspectionpreparationtile replacementgrout repairsealingWhile it may seem simple enough to fill in cracks or re-grout tiles, there are many factors that can affect the longevity and effectiveness of these repairs. Professionals have the skills and tools needed to properly assess the condition of your tiles and grout, as well as the proper techniques for repairing or replacing them. Trusting the experts with this repair can save you time, and money, and ensure that the job is done correctly.Flooring Bathroom flooring endures daily exposure to water, humidity, and cleaning products, which can cause damage over time. A professional installer has the knowledge and expertise to select the right type of flooring material and installation techniques that will endure these conditions. They also possess the necessary tools and equipment to properly remove the old flooring and install new materials without causing damage to plumbing and other bathroom fixtures. Choosing to hire a professional for your bathroom flooring repair not only saves you time and hassle but also helps ensure that your flooring will look great and last for the long haul.Waterproofing When it comes to repairing a bathroom, waterproofing is crucial for preventing any potential damage. However, this is a job that should not be taken lightly. It requires a certain level of expertise and knowledge to ensure that the job is done correctly. While it may be tempting to take on the task yourself, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. They have the knowledge and experience needed to properly waterproof your bathroom, which can save you from costly repairs in the future. By trusting the experts to handle this important task, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your bathroom is properly protected against water damage.Toilet Another bathroom project you shouldn’t do on your own repairs and installations regarding the toilet. While it may seem like a simple job, there are many technical aspects involved, from understanding the plumbing system to ensuring the proper installation of the toilet bowl and flushing mechanisms. Hiring an expert to carry out toilet repairs will not only save you from the headache of DIY attempts going wrong but also ensures your safety and protection against any potential hazards that may arise from faulty repairs. So if you’re faced with a broken or malfunctioning toilet, do yourself a favor and leave it to the experts.Mold RemediationMold remediation is a bathroom repair that’s complex and potentially dangerous. While it may be tempting to clean mold yourself, it’s important to understand the risks. Improperly handling mold can lead to health problems and unintentionally spread the spores throughout your home. Professionals have the necessary equipment and expertise to perform mold remediation safely and effectively. In addition to removing the mold, they can also identify any underlying causes and provide guidance on preventing future mold growth. Don’t take chances with your health and home – leave mold remediation to the experts.

Blue Collar Eats – Sem Sem Mediterrean

Sem Sem Mediterranean is a delightful restaurant in Tinley Park, IL that offers authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. From the moment you step inside you are greeted by the welcoming aroma of spices.The menu at Sem Sem is a mix of traditional Middle Eastern dishes, from appetizers like hummus and baba ghanoush to main courses like shawarma and kebab.

All dishes are made with fresh ingredients. “Everything is made fresh, everything from the hummus, to the falafel, to the salad, the sauces. The bread is made daily which we get from my other restaurant that has a bakery in it," says Omar. Omar is the owner of Sem Sem, and takes pride in operating the establishment. "I’m proud of this, i have so much pride in making this food, everybody loves it. My family, my friends, our customers, it makes me feel so happy." Omar originally graduated from medical school, and was in the process of acing his medical board tests when he decided to pursue his career in the food industry instead, because it was his passion. One of the standout dishes at Sem Sem is the falafel, which is made with chickpeas and a blend of herbs and spices, then fried to crispy perfection. Another crowd favorite is the lamb shank, which is slow-cooked with spices and served with rice pilaf. All of the recipes served at Sem Sem are a family recipe tradition, Omar just puts his "touch" on it, as he calls it. "We get the chicken and let it sit and marinate for at least 24 hours. There is about 11 different spices (for the chicken), and for the steak there is 7." Sem Sem also offers vegan and vegetarian options as well.

Kevin’s favorite meal from Sem Sem is always the steak wrap. "This is my personal favorite, the steak wrap with tahini sauce. It’s very good. You can tell every time I come here the food is consistent, that’s the best part." Don’t forget to check out the full episode of Blue Collar Eats on Facebook or Youtube to hear customer’s reviews and see the rest of what Kevin and Omar decided to devour into for the video. Facebook:Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbinghttps://fb.watch/k16ZJ7jxI3/Youtube:Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbinghttps://youtu.be/ML9iv6jZLFk

Tips for Spring Cleaning

Spring is the perfect time to clean and refresh your home after a long winter. It’s a great opportunity to get rid of clutter, deep clean those hard-to-reach places, and give your home a fresh start. Here are some tips for spring cleaning your home:Make a plan: Start by making a plan of what you want to clean and where you want to start. Make a checklist of all the areas of your home that need cleaning, and prioritize them based on how dirty or cluttered they are.Declutter: One of the most important steps in spring cleaning is decluttering. Go through each room and get rid of anything that you no longer need or use. This can include clothes, toys, books, and household items. Donate or sell anything that is in good condition, and throw away anything that is no longer useful.Deep clean: Once you have decluttered, it’s time to deep clean your home. This includes dusting, vacuuming, and washing all surfaces, including walls, floors, and windows. Pay special attention to areas that are often overlooked, such as behind furniture and under appliances.Organize: After you have cleaned, it’s time to organize. Make sure everything has a place, and put things away in their designated spot. Consider investing in storage solutions, such as shelves, bins, and baskets, to help keep things organized.Tackle the outside: Spring cleaning isn’t just about the inside of your home. Take some time to clean up your yard and outdoor spaces. This can include raking leaves, trimming bushes, and cleaning patio furniture.Maintain: Finally, make a plan to maintain your clean home. Create a cleaning schedule that includes regular tasks such as dusting, vacuuming, and wiping down surfaces. This will help you keep your home clean and organized all year round.In conclusion, spring cleaning your home is an important task that can help you refresh and renew your living space. By decluttering, deep cleaning, and organizing, you can create a more inviting and functional home that you can enjoy all year round.